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Forensic DNA Testing
Forensic DNA analysis can be performed for individual clients, as well as law enforcement. DNA evidence is becoming
more prevalent in criminal proceedings. Forensic DNA Testing assists in linking unsolved crimes, finding a suspect,
identifying victims of violent crimes or natural disasters.
DNA is a powerful method of either powerfully incriminating or exonerating an individual accused of a crime, and it can
often assist criminal investigations before law enforcement even has a suspect.
The services we provide assists law enforcement agencies, private investigators, and legal professionals in finding answers,
administering justice, and ensuring a safe, secure environment for everyone.
When DNA evidence has been analyzed, the DNA profile can be used in two ways: to link the evidence to a suspect
who is a previously convicted offender, or to link different crimes together, such as when DNA from a single perpetrator is
found in two different crime scenes.
Whenever DNA evidence is involved in a case, you need the best forensic experts to examine the details that will make
or break the case. You can rest assured in obtaining the best resource for DNA testing that is unbiased and that meets
strict legal and scientific testing standards. Forensic experts are also available which are court-qualified to provide
expert testimonies, having testified a combined total of over 500 times in court. These experts have the proven ability
to deliver clear explanations on highly technical subjects, explaining the DNA evidence in a manner that the jury and others
in the court will understand.
Forensic Paternity Testing
Forensic paternity testing is often called for in criminal situations such as rape or incest where there are products
of conception. In addition, forensic paternity tests as well as other relationship tests could be used to identify missing
victims or suspects through their family members who are available for testing.
Different samples types can be processed, including blood, fetal tissue and the most commonly used buccal swab.
All samples are handled with a strict chain of custody, and each case is tested twice for complete accuracy.
Results of forensic paternity tests exceed most courts' requirements in terms of power of discrimination. In addition
to the 13 core CODIS loci required by the FBI, extended testing (using up to 25 STR markers) and statistical analysis can
be performed. Additional specialized tests such a mtDNA and Y-STR typing can be used to supplement paternity test results.
In-depth experience in paternity and family relationship testing helps to address unique genetic situations such as mutations
and uncommon familial relationships.
Forensic Applications: - Semen Detection & DNA Detection Tests -
Stains
on articles of clothing, undergarments, bed or bath linens, female hygiene products, pantyhose, other types of clothing, etc.
can be tested for the presence of semen. Should the article test positive for semen, a DNA Detection Test
can then be done to determine if there is usable DNA, enough DNA to conduct a DNA Comparison. This can be particularly
critical in determining the outcome of divorce proceedings.
Semen Detection * - This type of test is typically performed on
a garment, undergarment or other item (pantiliner, etc.) when a person suspects another of infidelity or other sexual
activity. The results indicate whether the item is positive or negative for the presence of semen. This type of
test is NOT a DNA test. It determines whether there is a presence of semen on a garment or item.
It does not determine whether DNA is present, if there is enough DNA, or if there is usable DNA. If the garment or
item tests positive for the presence of semen, the next step to pursue is a DNA DETECTION TEST.
DNA
Detection Test * - This test detects whether DNA is present, and it also indicates whether there is
enough usable DNA for comparison. If there is a mixture of more than one person's DNA detected, a Differential
Extraction Test will be necessary before a comparison study can be performed. This type of test will detect DNA from
the female wearing the garment or undergarment, as well as the DNA from the semen found on the garment. Testing
can be done which will only detect the male DNA -- SEE DNA DETECTION TEST, YSTR.
DNA Detection Test, YSTR * - This test detects whether male DNA
is present and disregards any female DNA on an item or garment. It also will indicate whether there is enough usable
DNA for comparison. In the event a female has had sexual relations with the close male biological relative of a spouse
or boyfriend, it may not be possible to distinguish the male DNA from those of the spouse/boyfriend and their relative
(brother, father, grandfather, close cousin).
- DNA
Comparison Study * - This test compares the DNA from a standard sample (usually a buccal swab from the cheek)
to one DNA Profile detected in the DNA Detection Test.
*Note: Since samples are not collected under a strict
chain of custody by a third neutral party, and the origin of the samples cannot be verified, this test may not be defensible
in a court of law. The exception would be in cases where an investigator or law enforcement officer has collected
evidence at a crime scene and a strict legal chain of custody is maintained.
- DNA Banking - DNA Banking allows individuals to store a sample of their DNA in a secure
facility. This is an excellent way to identify and locate a person using their DNA sample. It is also an effective
tool to locate a child should he or she turn up missing. A child's DNA will remain consistent throughout their lifetime.
The only safe way to protect it is to have a DNA sample properly stored under ideal conditions. This ensures that should
an emergency occur, the DNA sample could assist law enforcement in locating the child. Storing samples at home is not
advisable, since humidity, moisture and high temperature could render the samples unusable. You can rest assured knowing
your DNA sample will be stored in a secure, climate-controlled facility, which is protected from the elements and from
theft or tampering. With a properly sealed and stored sample, a DNA sample can last for an indefinite period of time.
- Missing Children
- DNA Banking is highly recommended by law enforcement as a means of identifying children should they be lost or abducted.
SEE DNA BANKING FOR MORE INFORMATION.
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